The Riverwalk comes alive the first Sunday of each month for the free Sunday Jazz Brunch with talented local jazz ensembles on four stages. Bring beach blankets, picnic baskets, and good friends for a relaxing and memorable afternoon.

Neighbors can use LauderBuild to search for records, create an account and make payments. Registered users will have access to apply for building and event permits, schedule inspections, renew licenses, pay fees and more. Creating an account is free and easy!

City Update - Friday, June 5, 2020

Department of Health InformationAccording to the Florida Department of Health, as of June 5, 2020, results from approximately 118,333 tests administered in Broward County indicated 110,701 negative results; 7,572 positive results; 44 inconclusive results; and 21 pending results. To see the latest data from the FDOH, visit bit.ly/2wb29D2. Individuals with questions related to the coronavirus should call the Florida Department of Health’s Coronavirus Call Center at 1-866-779-6121 which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov. Individuals who are concerned that they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should call the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at 954-412-7300 and their healthcare provider before traveling to any healthcare facility.

Broward County Allows More Activities, Businesses, and Amenities to OpenBroward County has issued Emergency Order 20-15 which allows organized youth activities, including summer camps, sports teams, athletic leagues, and youth clubs and programs, to begin operating on June 8 provided they adhere to social distancing, facial covering, and sanitation requirements as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Movie theaters, museums, bowling alleys, arcades, and indoor amusement facilities may operate at 50% capacity beginning June 15, provided they follow strict operating, cleaning, health, and safety guidelines and social distancing regulations. Vacation rentals may also begin operating on June 15 as authorized by the Governor's Executive Order 20-87 and consistent with the Broward County Short-Term Vacation Rental Reopening Plan included in the order. To read Emergency Order 20-15, visit bit.ly/376qIPR.

Hours Changing at COVID-19 Testing Site at Holiday Park Beginning June 9Hours for the free COVID-19 testing facility at Holiday Park (1150 G. Harold Martin Drive) in Fort Lauderdale will be changing. Beginning Tuesday, June 9, the site will operate Tuesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., by appointment only. Since its opening, the testing site has served 7,016 people. Testing is available to anyone over the age of 18 with or without COVID-19 symptoms. No doctor referral is needed. Photo ID is required. Appointments may be booked by calling 1-800-209-7919, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. First responders needing tests may make appointments and use the Sunrise Boulevard entrance to the park with proper identification. Tests are administered by healthcare professionals from AMR. Patients will be contacted when test results are available. Patients who do not receive a call after five business days, should contact CDR Maguire, Inc. at 850-583-2419 or email covid19results@cdrmhealth.com. For more details, visit bit.ly/ftlcovid19testing.

Broward Schools Summer Meals Distribution Begins June 9On Tuesday, June 9, Broward County Public Schools will begin its Summer Meals program at 49 school sites throughout the District. Grab-and-go meal service will be open from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, providing children 18 years and younger, and adults who accompany them, meals for the entire week. Adults may receive meals for children who are not present by providing identification for the children. Adults wishing to receive meals must be present. Meals may be obtained by walking up or driving up to the designated location on campus. The Summer Meals program is made possible with the help of community partners including Feeding South Florida, Health Foundation of Broward, The Hunger Coalition, United Way of Broward, Miami Dolphins and The Jim Moran Foundation. For more details and a complete list of distribution locations, visit bit.ly/3cBZK3I.

Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance Shares COVID-19 Survey ResultsThe Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance and Broward County conducted a countywide survey from April 20 to May 29 to investigate the potential economic effects of COVID-19. Close to 1,000 surveys were completed with a participation rate of 10 percent. Key survey findings include: 80% of respondents reported that their companies are currently open for business; 90% of responding companies reported that COVID-19 negatively affected their revenues; 62% of the companies that responded did not lay off or furlough employees; 82% of respondents applied for some type of assistance; and among companies responding, 73% reported a successful application with the CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program. To review the complete survey results, visit bit.ly/30dlKiw.

Chamber Outlines Changes to Paycheck Protection ProgramThe Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce has compiled a summary document of key modifications made to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 includes several significant updates affecting both borrowers and lenders participating in the program. It extends the deadline to apply for a PPP loan from June 30 to December 31, 2020. It also extends the “covered period” in which borrowers must use the funds for forgiveness purposes from the current 8 weeks to the earlier of 24 weeks from loan disbursement or December 31, 2020. In addition, under the new regulations, borrowers are required to use at least 60% (as opposed to 75%) of their PPP loan proceeds during the covered period for Payroll Costs to qualify for loan forgiveness. For more details, visit bit.ly/2A5xrgH.

CVB’s Future In Focus II Now OnlineEarlier this week, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau hosted “Future in Focus II,” the second edition of its online destination recovery summit. The virtual event provided participants with details on the CVB’s recovery marketing plan designed to revitalize Greater Fort Lauderdale and the local tourism industry. In case you missed it, the tourism recovery summit may be viewed online at sunny.org/partners. In addition, the slide presentation from the summit may be viewed by visiting bit.ly/2UigPt7.

South Florida Business Council to Host Webinar on June 9The South Florida Business Council invites you to a webinar focusing on "Managing Your Business and Your Personal Wealth Through COVID-19." The event will take place on Tuesday, June 9 from noon- 1:30 p.m. via Zoom. The webinar will offer valuable advice on personal wealth management provided by an expert panel of speakers including David McCombie, Founder and CEO of the McCombie Group; Ramiro Ortiz, Senior Advisor at the McCombie Group; and Jay Pelham, CFP, Principal, Client Services, at Kaufman Rossin Wealth and Kaufman Rossin Insurance Services. To register, visit bit.ly/3gYv4wS. For details, contact Mike Cobelo at mike@ftlchamber.com.

Broward MPO Webinar on June 23 to Focus on Distancing StrategiesPhysical distancing recommendations are placing more pressure on public spaces. In response, city-level departments of transportation and transit agencies are testing new ideas, experimenting with pilot projects, and simply responding to a rapidly evolving environment. As part of its Complete Streets Initiative, the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is hosting “Adapting Public Space in Response to Physical Distancing Requirements: Embracing the ‘Temporary’ as the New Normal,” a free webinar to bring local officials proven strategies implemented in other communities that may help guide decisions in response to COVID-19 pandemic challenges. The webinar will take place on Tuesday, June 23 from 1 - 2 p.m. To register, visit bit.ly/2UihKd3. For more information please contact Stephanie Garcia at garcias@browardmpo.org.

LauderBriefs: Updates from the June 2 City Commission Meetings Now OnlineIn case you missed it, highlights from the virtual Fort Lauderdale City Commission Meetings that took place on Tuesday, June 2 are available online at bit.ly/lauderbriefs. The City Commission meeting video is available on YouTube at youtu.be/gUg2sQov9YI and the vote summary is available on the City’s website at bit.ly/ftlccagendas.

Next Virtual City Commission Meeting on June 16The next virtual meeting of the City Commission is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 16 at 6:00 p.m. The public will be able to listen to and view the virtual meeting on FLTV, YouTube, Zoom, Comcast Channel 78, and AT&T U-verse Channel 99. To learn more about virtual City Commission meetings, including how to view agendas and sign up to speak, visit fortlauderdale.gov/vcmeetings.

Register for Summer Camp in Fort LauderdaleThe City of Fort Lauderdale’s summer camps are action-packed with playtime, creative expression, and friendly competition. Arts and crafts, sports, and fitness are just a few of our many camp activities! To ensure children and staff remain safe, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department has adopted guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to safeguard public health. This summer camp capacities have been lowered and placement in the program is reserved for City of Fort Lauderdale residents only. Registration for summer camps is underway. For complete details about registration times, dates, and locations, visit bit.ly/ftlsummercamps.

Fort Lauderdale’s July 4th Celebration to Feature Fireworks Around the CityThe Fort Lauderdale City Commission approved moving forward with the coordination of four fireworks shows as part of Fort Lauderdale’s Independence Day Celebration. Locations being explored for the shows currently include Holiday Park, downtown, the north beach area, and the northwest area. The shows will not be open to spectators, however, neighbors will be encouraged to enjoy the fireworks from their backyards and front porches as we celebrate the 4th of July together by staying apart. As more information becomes available, updates will be shared on the City’s website at www.fortlauderdale.gov.

Beaches Open for Sunbathing, Picnicking and MoreFort Lauderdale beaches are open and visitors are allowed to partake in ocean activities including swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and body surfing, and land-based activities including walking, running, biking, and surf fishing (in permitted areas). In addition, picnicking, sunbathing, sitting or lying on the beach is permitted, as well as the use of umbrellas, canopies, chairs, loungers, and coolers. Group gatherings are limited to 10 people and facial coverings must be worn when social distancing of 6 feet between persons (other than members of the same household or group) cannot be maintained. Group and organized sports remain prohibited including, but not limited to, volleyball, soccer and football. For details, visit bit.ly/2XlVhO7.

Hurricane Season is Underway – Be PreparedThe 2020 Hurricane Season is officially underway. Over the next six months, please pay close attention to weather developments in our area as experts are predicting a very busy season with as many as 16 to 18 named storms. This season will be particularly challenging given the continued presence of COVID-19. Please make sure to review your family emergency plan and assemble a hurricane supply kit so you are well-prepared should a storm impact our area. To sign up to receive emergency alerts from the City, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/alertftl. For hurricane preparation guidance, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/hurricane.

Help Us Increase Our Census Response Rate by Completing the 2020 Census Today!Attention Neighbors! Help the City of Fort Lauderdale be accurately counted in the 2020 Census. Currently, Fort Lauderdale’s response rate is 50.9%, which is nearly 10 percentage points behind the current national response rate of 60.7%, and more than 7 percentage points under the current state of Florida response rate of 58.1%. Counting every neighbor in our City gives us an opportunity to receive our fair share of more than $1.5 trillion in federal funding for infrastructure, schools, housing, roads, healthcare, and public service programs. An accurate census count also provides critical funding for hospitals, disaster recovery, and emergency readiness for pandemics like COVID-19. Please respond to the 2020 Census today! Fill out and mail back the questionnaire sent to your home; complete the census form online www.my2020census.gov; or take the census over the phone by calling 1-844-330-2020.

Visit Lauderdale Launches “LauderDeals”The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau has launched LauderDeals, a destination-wide special savings program for visitors and residents. The campaign features special discounts on hotels, dining, activities, amenities, and more! In addition, the program includes deals and special offers for Florida residents, along with first responders and members of the military. Check out all of the savings as you plan your “Staycation” at bit.ly/3cxW4zP.

During this week’s drive-thru food distribution event hosted by the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, and Wilton Manors recipients are once again being asked to arrive with their own empty box or container placed in the trunk of their vehicle so it can be filled with food as they pass through the distribution stations. The free food distribution will take place on Thursday, June 11 from 9 - 11 a.m. at Mills Pond Park, located at 2201 NW 9 Avenue. Produced in partnership with Feeding South Florida, the event provides healthy and nutritious food to those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Food is distributed on a first come, first served basis (while supplies last). Recipients must remain in their vehicles and will be instructed to open their trunk when volunteers are ready to load it. To access Mills Pond Park, please enter from southbound NW 9 Avenue. For more details, visit bit.ly/2K8cnrn. For more information about Feeding South Florida, visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org. To make a donation to Feeding South Florida, please visit bit.ly/2WJVl8Y.

Video of Holiday Park COVID-19 Testing Site Shows What to ExpectThe City of Fort Lauderdale has produced a short video to show people who book an appointment for a drive-thru COVID-19 test at the Holiday Park testing site, what to expect during their visit. The video takes a driver through the entire process from arrival and check-in to testing and departure. The City would like to thank the Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Department, Florida National Guard, American Medical Response (AMR), and Fort Lauderdale Police Department for their assistance with the project. To watch the video on the City’s YouTube channel, please visit bit.ly/3dhBUL6.

What’s Open in Fort LauderdaleAs we continue to see a decrease in the spread of COVID-19 and begin to return to a degree of normal life, the following business and amenities have reopened in Fort Lauderdale: beaches; commercial gyms and fitness centers, including dance, martial arts, yoga, spinning and personal training studios; hotels, motels and commercial lodging establishments; restaurants and food establishments; retail stores; personal services (hair and nail salons, barbershops, etc.); recreational amenities in housing developments; community pools and private club pools; museums; city parks, pools, and boat ramps; other professional services. Businesses and amenities that have reopened are required to adhere to strict operating, cleaning, health, and safety guidelines, limitations on occupancy and hours of operation, and regulations on social distancing. For more details and specific reopening guidelines, visit bit.ly/ftlreopen.

City’s Dogs Parks are Open! The City of Fort Lauderdale’s dog parks have reopened. The City operates Bark Park (the park dogs ask for by name), located at Snyder Park at 3299 S.W. 4 Avenue, and Holiday Park Dog Park, located in Holiday Park at 1150 G. Harold Martin Drive. In addition, swimming for dogs is available at Snyder Park’s East Lake and at Canine Beach (by permit only), located at approximately 1269 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. Dog walking is permitted (by permit only) daily from 6 a.m. – 9 a.m. on the west side of A1A from Sunrise Boulevard south to the intersection of A1A and Seabreeze Boulevard. Dog walking is available on the west side of A1A north of Sunrise Boulevard 24 hours a day, with no permit required. Dog walking is free and permitted daily along downtown’s Riverwalk. For details about dog friendly places in Fort Lauderdale visit bit.ly/ftldogs. To download a free Dog Park Guide, visit bit.ly/3gzJfYU.

FLPD Hosts Discussion with Community Leaders

Earlier today, Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Rick Maglione was joined by Mayor Dean Trantalis; Assistant Police Chief Karen Dietrich; Rosalind Osgood, Vice Chair of the Broward County School Board; and Reverend Dr. Marcus Davidson, Pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church, for a Facebook Live discussion on recent events in Minneapolis, Fort Lauderdale, and around the country. The event included remarks from each speaker as well as a Q & A session from viewers who submitted questions during the presentation. To watch the video of the discussion, visit https://bit.ly/2XlLkA4.

Bonnet House Main House Now Open

The Main House at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens has reopened for self-guided tours. Guests will enjoy a one-way route around the whimsical estate, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Stops along the self-guided house tour include the Bridge/Boat House, studio, courtyard, butler’s pantry, kitchen, dining room, music room, veranda, Shell Museum/Orchid House/Bamboo Bar and more. Tickets are $20 for the house and grounds tours, and $10 for the grounds-only tour for all non-members. Tickets are free for members. Daily visits will take place Tuesday–Sunday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., with early access for members and visitors with potential health vulnerabilities from 9–10 a.m. For details, visit bit.ly/3chNZis.

Broward Center to Offer Virtual Summer Camps

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is launching a unique virtual experience with Summer Theater Camp 2020. Under the direction of Executive Director Nina Felice, the virtual four-week camp program will offer students the chance to study singing, dancing and acting while rehearsing for a Broadway revue. Age appropriate offerings include Disney Showcase for children ages 7-9; A Stephen Schwartz Showcase for youths ages 10-13; and a Young Professionals Group for teens ages 14-18. The Broward Center is also offering a one-week virtual Broadway Intensive. Designed for young people ages 10-18, the camp provides small group instruction, specialized sessions covering choreography, directing, and technical theater as well as interactive daily masterclasses with Broadway professionals. Registration for all camps is available online at BrowardCenter.org/virtualprograms, by email at registrar@BrowardCenter.org or by phone at 954-414-6904.

CDC Encourages Businesses to Flush Plumbing Systems

As businesses begin to reopen, the CDC encourages them to flush their plumbing. Because many businesses have been closed during the COVID-19 State of Emergency, water has not been used and has remained in meter-to-building pipes for several weeks. The CDC and regulatory agencies advise that stagnant or standing water may cause conditions that increase the risk for the growth and spread of Legionella and other biofilm-associated bacteria. This advisory includes hot and cold-water systems, cooling towers, hot tubs, pools, spas, water heaters as well as decorative fountains. Following the Centers’ for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines may greatly reduce chances for Legionella and other opportunistic waterborne microbes from developing within plumbing systems and devices. Businesses owners with questions regarding the CDC recommendations regarding water systems may call the Florida Department of Health at 305-324-2400. To review the CDC Guidelines for reopening buildings after a prolonged shutdown, visit the CDC website at bit.ly/2AbifhF or the EPA website at bit.ly/3chW7Q0.

Fort Lauderdale’s Virtual Recreation Center offers free, fun, and educational activities and resources for the entire family. The Virtual Recreation Center offers instructor-led virtual classes in yoga, line dancing, Zumba, and more! To view the current weekly schedule, visit bit.ly/2T3Pjib. To sign up for a class, visit bit.ly/2WsRPAD.

Contactless Parking Options in Fort Lauderdale

The City of Fort Lauderdale Department of Transportation and Mobility reminds neighbors that contactless parking options are available in the City. The free “PayByPhone” app may be downloaded to mobile devices from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Once installed, drivers simply need to enter the zone number listed on signs posted in the lot, garage, or on-street space where they are parked; pay for a parking session; and go. In addition, monthly parking permits for various lots and locations throughout the City may be purchased online by visiting bit.ly/3gCIoqA. The Transportation and Mobility customer service staff is available to provide more information and answer questions about contactless parking options Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., at 954-828-3700 or parkingservices@fortlauderdale.gov.

City to Expand Outdoor Space with Nightly Closing of NE 33 Street

The City of Fort Lauderdale has launched the Temporary Outdoor Business Expansion initiative. The program involves temporarily closing portions of roads in key areas to facilitate social distancing for pedestrians and business patrons and to expand access to outdoor spaces for seating, dining, and other business activities. Under the program, NE 33 Street between A1A and NE 33 Avenue will be closed nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. (including on-street parking spaces). Pedestrians should exercise caution and motorists should travel slowly through the area and follow posted detour signs. On-street parking is available on NE 33 Street west of NE 33 Avenue and on other surrounding streets. Additional parking options include the Beach Community Center located at 3351 NE 33rd Avenue and the Bridgeside Place Garage located at 3020 NE 32 Avenue. For details, visit bit.ly/ftltobeadvisory.

City Reopens Parking Garages, Surface Lots, and On-Street Parking on Beach
The following municipal parking garages, surface lots, and on-street parking areas have reopened: Las Olas Garage at 200 E. Las Olas Circle; Las Olas Intracoastal Lot (E Lot) at S. Birch Road and Las Olas Circle; D.C. Alexander Park Lot at SE 5 Street and A1A; Fort Lauderdale Beach Park Lot at 700 Seabreeze Boulevard; Vista Park Lot at 2880 N. Atlantic Boulevard; Loggerhead Park Lot at 2700 N. Atlantic Boulevard; the Sebastian Street Lot at 3031 Sebastian Street; on-street parking on SE 5 Street between Seabreeze Boulevard and A1A; and on-street parking on A1A between Sunrise Boulevard and NE 18 Street. All other on-street metered parking on Fort Lauderdale Beach is also open and available for use at the normal rates. Parking enforcement staff will issue citations for any infractions, including non-payment. For more details and to view a map of the locations, visit bit.ly/2XCMfLC. Neighbors with questions may contact Parking Customer Service at 954-828-3700 or via email at parkingservices@fortlauderdale.gov.

City’s Department of Sustainable Development (DSD) Building is OpenThe City of Fort Lauderdale’s Department of Sustainable Development building, located at 700 N.W. 19 Avenue, has reopened. Customers are allowed to conduct business in the building Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., provided they adhere to strict guidelines that have been put in place to protect health and safety and ensure proper social distancing. A check-in process has been established in the DSD parking that requires customers to remain in their vehicles and provide staff with their name and phone number. Each customer receives a call when it is their turn to enter the building. Prior to entering, customers are required to have their temperature taken, clean their hands, have any paperwork disinfected, and be wearing a facial covering. Signage inside the lobby prompts customers to follow a designated one-way counter-clockwise direction. Customers proceed to a designated permit services technician for permitting assistance, and those awaiting service are positioned a minimum of six feet apart from each other. Customers with questions may contact the DSD call center at 954-828-6520.

Small Business Administration Virtual Office HoursThe U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) South Florida District Office will host virtual office hours (Tuesday - Friday) to answer questions about the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. Participants may call at any time and are welcome to enter and exit at will.

Small Business Administration to Host Virtual Business Recovery WebinarsThe SBA South Florida District Office will host a series of Small Business Recovery webinars (Tuesday - Friday) to provide the latest information on how the SBA is helping small businesses with their economic recovery from the effects of COVID-19.

City to Resume Processing Permits for Interior Construction of Occupied StructuresThe City of Fort Lauderdale Sustainable Development Department will begin allowing interior construction within occupied structures. Permits will be processed and issued subject to the execution and strict adherence to a Request for Release of Permit/Continuation of Construction Form. As part of the process, contractors will be required to certify their compliance with all applicable CDC Guidelines, including avoiding and minimizing contact with building occupants, wearing face coverings, and maintaining social distancing. Contractors will also be required to adhere to any individual building management requirements and protocols. If contractors are found to violate these requirements, the work may be suspended by the City until the conditions are resolved.

Residential and Commercial Real Estate Services to Resume OperatingThe City of Fort Lauderdale is allowing residential and commercial real estate services to resume operations. The decision comes based on a newly released and updated Advisory Memorandum from the Department of Homeland Security on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response, as well as Broward County’s Emergency Order 20-12.

Chamber Offers Reopening Guidance for Businesses

To help local businesses that are beginning to reopen, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce has created a Return to Work Checklist that businesses can access at bit.ly/2WybWgY. The Chamber has also developed a comprehensive reopening guide that can be accessed by visiting bit.ly/2y2rGPN. The guide offers businesses recommendations for safely reopening, protecting customers, and safeguarding public health.

As cities and counties prepare to begin to slowly reopen, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released “Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes.” The guidelines offer specific recommendations and best practices for cleaning and disinfection of a wide range of entities, including restaurants, offices, schools, healthcare facilities, childcare programs, faith-based organizations, recreational facilities, transportation companies, and more. To view the CDC recommendations, visit bit.ly/3dEDPJR. The CDC also released "Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employees," which offers updated strategies and recommendations for employers responding to COVID-19, including those seeking to resume normal or phased business operations. For more details, visit bit.ly/2WKQFj3.

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association in partnership with the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association, has developed a set of reopening standards for restaurants and hotels. The standards cover a wide range of areas including food safety, cleaning and sanitizing, employee health and personal hygiene, social distancing, infection prevention, environmental safety, and more. The operating standards are designed to increase safety, restore consumer confidence, and deliver a clean, comfortable, and sanitary experience to guests. To view the recommendations, visit bit.ly/2xVIvfe.

Select Broward County Libraries Offering Walk-Up/Drive-Up Service

Broward County Libraries is offering walk-up/drive-up service at a limited number of libraries. The new service will allow customers to pick up reserved library materials in a safe manner while Broward County Libraries remain closed to the public. Customers may resume reserving books, DVDs and other library materials using BCL’s online catalog or by calling their local library. Library staff will be unable to provide customers with any materials that have not been reserved ahead of time. A Broward County Library card is required to reserve library materials. For more information, visit bit.ly/2Z9VOE6.

South Side Cultural Arts Center’s “A Call for Healing Through Art!”

We are all affected by COVID-19 and are sharing similar experiences, feelings, and emotions. The City of Fort Lauderdale’s South Side Cultural Arts Center encourages everyone to inspire each other through artistic creations and heal together through art. The center is currently accepting artwork for an online exhibit called “Healing Through Art.” Submissions may be made in various forms including visual arts, photography, poetry, and more. All entries will be posted on the City of Fort Lauderdale’s website. This exhibit will be open until further notice. All submissions must be family-friendly. Please email your submissionsouthside@fortlauderdale.gov in .jpg or .pdf file format only. For more information please call 954-828-6250 or email southside@fortlauderdale.gov.

Historic Stranahan House Continues to Livestream Museum Programs During Closure

During temporary closure due to COVID-19, the Historic Stranahan House Museum in Fort Lauderdale will continue to share stories and engage the community by livestreaming free family-friendly programs via Facebook every weekday at 11 a.m. Those who tune in will enjoy complimentary story times, virtual tours of the museum and history show and tells. The program will continue to stream as long as the museum is closed. All program topics are subject to change. Participants do not need an account and can access the content at www.facebook.com/StranahanHouse. For more information, visit www.stranahanhouse.org or contact info@stranahanhouse.org.

Broward County Offering Mobile and In-Home COVID-19 TestingBroward County, in partnership with Florida Department of Health in Broward, American Medical Response (AMR) and Century Ambulance Services, is offering mobile at-home COVID-19 testing. Residents eligible for this testing option include homebound elderly or individuals with disabilities who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot leave their homes to access one of the drive-up or walk-up test collection sites. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. - Noon, and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Residents who believe they are eligible for the mobile/in-home testing option should call the Broward County COVID-19 Call Center at 954-357-9500 for a pre-qualifying assessment. The Call Center is open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. seven days a week.

CareerSource Broward Offers Webinars for Job SeekersCareerSource Broward is offering a series of webinars for job seekers. The free online workshops focus on a variety of job-readiness topics including preparing for a successful job interview, telephone interviewing skills, social networking online, resume preparation, job search tips, and more. For more details and a complete schedule of offerings, visit bit.ly/2ziGHNA.

Chamber Offers Guide to PPP Loan Forgiveness

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce is monitoring actions being taken in Washington, D.C. that will have an effect on businesses, which have been approved for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan. Under the current rules, recipients of the federal assistance must spend the money within eight weeks, meaning business owners who received the earliest loans must spend the funds by May 29. Congress is currently working with the Treasury to extend the amount of time that businesses have to spend PPP funds. Business owners should be aware that if at least 75 percent of the money goes toward maintaining payroll (i.e., salary, health insurance, leave and severance pay) the federal government will forgive it. If you received a PPP loan, you should be working with your lender to apply for forgiveness. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has created a guide that can help you get started on understanding how the forgiveness process works. To view the Guide to PPP Loan Forgiveness, visit bit.ly/2A11Hck. To access a forgiveness application, visit bit.ly/2XfyD8E.

SBA Accepting PPP Loan ApplicationsThe federal government has approved an additional $320 billion for the Payroll Protection Program (PPP). The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has resumed accepting PPP loan applications from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. For more information about PPP, visit bit.ly/3aUghz5. For Frequently Asked Questions about PPP, visit bit.ly/2WoZ4Zn.

McClatchy Publishing to Present Three-Part COVID-19 Series

McClatchy Publishing presents “COVID-19: Bending the Curve,” a three-part livestreamed series of discussions focusing on the latest advancements for combating the novel coronavirus featuring top medical professionals, industry experts, patient advocates and policymakers. The free events will be livestreamed from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. on three consecutive Thursdays - May 28, June 4, and June 11. Topics will include Innovation & Treatment (May 28); The Path to a Vaccine (June 4); and the Impact on Health Care Policy (June 11). Bending the Curve is designed to be a true exchange of ideas, in a civil forum focused on solutions. To register, visit bit.ly/2WH9Wlk.

Visit Lauderdale Junior Ambassador Program

Need help keeping the kids focused on learning? The Visit Lauderdale Junior Ambassador free online learning program provides compelling, tourism-themed educational lessons for students in grades 3-5 and 6-8 that are filled with fun ways to learn about math, science, history, geography, the arts and more – all brought to life through locations and experiences available in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Kids that complete all the online subjects become Visit Lauderdale Junior Ambassadors. As Junior Ambassadors, students receive a certificate and Greater Fort Lauderdale-themed postcards to send out as invitations for friends and family to come visit – with them as the expert tour guide! For more details about the program, visit https://bit.ly/3fqX0J7.

FDOH Launches New Mobile COVID-19 App

The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has launched a new mobile app app, StrongerThanC19, to help Floridians combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Individuals may use the app to complete the StrongerThanC19 community action survey. The app allows users to go back and update their survey answers as symptoms and conditions change, which provides officials with the latest information to help improve the distribution of resources in response to COVID-19. Once the survey is completed, users may sign-up to receive COVID-19 updates from the FDOH. The free StrongerThanC19 app is available to both iOS and Android users and can be downloaded from the Apple or Google app stores. The survey is available in both English and Spanish and responses are anonymous. To access the survey online, visit www.StrongerThanC19.com.

Birch State Park ReopensHugh Taylor Birch State Park, located at 3109 East Sunrise Boulevard, has reopened. The park will operate daily from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. The park’s trails are open and restrooms and trash receptacles are available, however, beach access and other park facilities remain closed. Visitors are expected to maintain proper social distancing of at least six feet and limit the size of groups to 10 people. Normal park fees apply. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/3b5HYVI.

City’s Parking Services Office ReopensThe City of Fort Lauderdale’s Parking Services Office, located at 290 NE 3 Avenue, has reopened. The office will operate Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) social distancing guidelines, only two customers will be allowed in the lobby at any one time. Customers must wear facial coverings at all times and stand six feet apart as indicated by markings on the lobby floor. The City encourages neighbors to continue to conduct business virtually by calling 954-828-3700 or emailing parkingservices@fortlauderdale.gov for assistance. Neighbors may also visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/parking to purchase or renew permits and pay citations.

City Offers Free Traffic Control Support for Distribution EventsThe City of Fort Lauderdale is committed to helping our neighbors support one another during the COVID-19 crisis. To assist local community, faith-based, business, neighborhood, and non-profit organizations with food and emergency supply distributions, the City is offering traffic control support, at no charge, to help prevent traffic backups and facilitate a smooth, organized flow of vehicles during the event. Organizations hosting food or supply distribution events in need of traffic control are encouraged to complete a short online form at bit.ly/ftltrafficsupport or contact the 24-hour Neighbor Service Center at 954-828-8000. For more information, contact the Office of Neighbor Support at NeighborSupport@fortlauderdale.gov.

Check Out the City’s COVID-19 Community Resources Webpage
The City of Fort Lauderdale cares about the safety and well-being of its neighbors and is particularly focused on connecting them with resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. To that end, the City’s Neighbor Services Division has launched a new COVID-19 Community Resources page to help neighbors navigate this challenging time. The page features easily accessible information on a variety of topics including healthcare, childcare, education, elderly support, food distribution, housing, assistance programs and more. To access the webpage, please visit bit.ly/ftlcovid19commres.

Business and Employee Assistance ProgramsThe City of Fort Lauderdale is sensitive to the stress and financial impact our businesses and their employees are experiencing as a result of COVID-19. For more information about programs and resources designed to assist businesses, employees, and the general public during this challenging time, please visit bit.ly/2U2qwfw.

Broward Center Offers Online Arts and EducationStay connected with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts through the organization’s new online series of performing arts classes and content. Selections include 20-minute singing, acting, dance, or improv classes; live chats with special guests and Broadway professionals; sing-alongs with Artist-in-Residence, Tammy Holder; performances by students from the Broward Center’s Spotlights class; and more, all from the comfort of your own home. For more details and a complete schedule of offerings, visit www.browardcenter.org/education/educationathome.

Virtual tours of the exhibitions Happy!, which explores the full range of human emotion in contemporary art, and I Paint My Reality: Surrealism in Latin America that offer 360 views of the galleries and art on view. To take a virtual tour, visit bit.ly/34rctnf.

In the Artist’s Studioconsists of virtual studio visits featuring artists in the museum’s current exhibitions including Emilio Martinez, José Bedia, and Demi. Visit with the artists at bit.ly/2RvGrkR.

Video Channel features talks by artists, curators and historians along with features on museum events like the recent Rob Pruitt Flea Market in which local artists were invited to participate in this socially engaging art activation. Check out the video channel at bit.ly/2RvGrkR.

Remember to Wear Facial CoveringsFacial coverings help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help keep you and those around you safe. Facial coverings are in addition to, and not a substitute for, the required social distancing. Absent an express exception, facial coverings must be worn by: (a) workers in an establishment of any type that is permitted to operate in Broward County while engaged in in-person interactions with the public; (b) members of the public when obtaining any good or service or otherwise visiting any establishment in Broward County, including when entering, exiting, and moving around such establishment; (c) workers in restaurants or other food establishments, regardless of their distance from other persons, while involved in the preparation or handling of food, unless doing so would pose a hazard or health issue. The only exceptions are as follows: (a) children of any age while in the custody of childcare facilities; (b) children under the age of 2; (c) persons who have difficulty breathing or a medical condition that otherwise makes the wearing of a facial covering unsafe; (d) certain public safety personnel; and (e) persons for whom wearing a facial covering is subject to a religious objection. For additional details, see Broward County Emergency Order 20-12 at bit.ly/2AimqZm.

Please Dispose of Used Gloves and Face Coverings ProperlyAs more and more people wear gloves and face coverings in public to protect themselves and help slow the spread of COVID-19, it is important to remember to properly dispose of these items after use. Gloves and face coverings should never be left on the ground, on sidewalks, in streets, or in parking lots. These items may be contaminated and could potentially pose a risk to workers who have to pick them up. In addition, used masks and gloves are not biodegradable or recyclable. Those discarded on streets and sidewalks can easily make their way into our stormdrain system, potentially causing drainage problems and polluting our oceans and waterways. Please be respectful of others, particularly during this challenging time, and dispose of these items properly. To view CDC guidelines on how to protect yourself and others, visit bit.ly/3acut6g.

Governor DeSantis Announces Plans to Reopen FloridaFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced “The Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery.” The plan, put together by the Governor’s Re-Open Florida Task Force, outlines a road map for re-opening the state that focuses on guiding principles including Public Health and Safety; Protection of the Vulnerable; Health Care System Readiness; Economic Recovery; Protection of Civil Liberties and Maintaining Individual Rights; Public Confidence; and Partnership with Local Communities. Phase One of the plan begins on Monday, May 4, 2020, but does not include Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach counties. To view the plan, visit bit.ly/3c831Ig.

U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) Offering Business AssistanceThe U.S. Conference of Mayors Small Business and Entrepreneurship Task Forceis pleased to announce that individual business assistance is now available at no cost to small business owners. Small business owners impacted by the economic consequences of the pandemic can call 855-876-5561 to receive one-on-one help. Owners will be connected with experts who can assist them in developing strategies for their businesses, including personnel management, operations, and liquidity. Additionally, specialists will help owners navigate funding options at the federal, state, and local levels. For more details, visit bit.ly/2Vhvqoo.

Report Price Gouging to 1-866-966-7226During the COVID-19 outbreak, neighbors are reminded to be on the lookout for scams and guard against price gouging. For a list of items covered under the state’s price gouging laws during the COVID-19 state of emergency, visit bit.ly/2wAxiA4. Individuals who have experienced price gouging or scams related to COVID-19 can report them by calling Florida’s Price Gouging Hotline toll-free at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226). Complaints may also be submitted online at www.myfloridalegal.com. Violators of the price gouging law are subject to civil penalties of $1,000 per violation and up to a total of $25,000 for multiple violations committed in a single 24-hour period. For more information on price gouging, visit bit.ly/2K2pWsi.

Florida Poison Control Hotline 1-800-222-1222
Florida Poison Control offers immediate assistance through a nationwide, toll-free hotline, 1-800-222-1222, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Calls are answered by specially trained physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, toxicology fellows, and board-certified toxicologists who have immediate access to the latest, in-depth poison assessment and prevention techniques. The Poison Control Centers remind everyone, particularly children, that while many household cleaning products may look good enough to eat or taste, they should never be consumed. In case of exposure to cleaning products or disinfectants, call the Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. For more information, visit floridapoisoncontrol.org.

SOBEWFF® & FIU Chaplin School Hospitality Industry Relief The Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) has launched the SOBEWFF® & FIU Chaplin School Hospitality Industry Relief Fund to provide immediate financial support to independently owned and operated restaurants and bars impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Grants will be provided to independently owned and operated restaurants and bars that have had to temporarily cease operations, lay off employees, or whose businesses have been severely diminished due to locally mandated closure orders. For details and to apply, visit bit.ly/2XYx01i.

211 Broward Checking on Elderly Through Senior Touchline211 Broward is a free, confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week that provides trained specialists who are available to speak directly with callers, assess current circumstances, de-escalate crisis situations, and provide valuable linkage to available community resources. Through a grant from the Jim Moran Foundation, the agency continues to operate the Senior Touchline program, a service that enables 211 Broward representatives to place calls to senior citizens to check on them during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you know of a senior, 60 years of age or older and living alone that would like a daily reassurance call, please contact Rafael Vazquez at 954-640-5800.

White House Unveils Plan to Reopen the CountryPresident Trump has unveiled Guidelines for Opening Up America Again, a three-phased approach based on the advice of public health experts. The steps are designed to help guide state and local officials when reopening their economies, getting people back to work, and continuing to protect American lives. The plan focuses on a phased approach to reopening the country once criteria is met that includes: seeing a decrease in symptoms and reported COVID-19 cases over a sustained 14-day period; confirming that hospitals are no longer operating in crisis care mode; and having a robust testing system in place. The plan offers state and local officials the flexibility to take local circumstances into consideration when applying the criteria (e.g., metropolitan areas that have suffered severe COVID outbreaks, rural and suburban areas where outbreaks have not occurred or have been mild). In addition, Governors are encouraged to work on a regional basis to satisfy the criteria and progress through the phases of the reopening plan. For details, visit www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Launches “Keep Florida Growing” WebsiteWith restaurants and foodservice businesses closed due to COVID-19, agricultural producers across the country have struggled to sell perishable products like fruits and vegetables. Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) are working to support farmers, ranchers, producers, and consumers during this difficult time. The FDACS has launched the Keep Florida Growing website and the Florida Farm To You Commodities List to connect potential buyers with farmers and producers of Florida-grown commodities like fresh produce, seafood, poultry, and more. Buyers, food banks, and consumers can directly connect with growers selling these products using contact information on the list. To view the Keep Florida Growing website, visit bit.ly/3bcosI1. To view the Florida Farm To You Commodities List, visit bit.ly/34FddFn.

FAQ on Reemployment Assistance from Florida Department of Economic OpportunityThe Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) has produced a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document focusing on Reemployment Assistance. The FAQ, which can be accessed by visiting bit.ly/2xuVuo2, covers an array of topics including reemployment eligibility requirements, CARES Act eligibility requirements, submission requirements, processes and procedures, benefits, and examples of numerous situations that may be applicable to people requesting benefits. The DEO’s Connect claims system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at connect.myflorida.com and the DEO’s contact center hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7:30 am - 6:30 pm and Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Contact phone numbers are as follows:

Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council ResourcesThe Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) has assembled an important and timely list of resources and information to help businesses handle the challenges associated with COVID-19. The organization’s website includes quick links to loans, assistance with loan packaging, technical assistance, webinars, advice on business continuity and strategies for managing remote workforces. For more information, visit fsmsdc.org/covid19.

U.S. Surgeon General Shows How to Make Your Own Face CoveringThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public areas where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) and especially where significant community-based transmission of the coronavirus is occurring. In support of this recommendation, Dr. Jerome Adams, the U.S. Surgeon General, has produced a video showing simple steps to making your own face covering. To view the video, visit bit.ly/2y8FE2u. In addition to the video, the CDC offers simple step-by-step instructions for making sewn or non-sewn homemade face coverings at bit.ly/39X2OFZ.

SAMHSA Offers Free Information on Mental and Behavioral Health During COVID-19The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. The organization offers free information, materials, and resources focusing on better mental and behavioral health, as well as ways that individuals and families can cope with the stress and challenges of COVID-19 (see links to flyers below). SAMHSA has also established a Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide immediate crisis counseling and support to people dealing with mental or emotional issues related to the coronavirus pandemic. For more information, visit www.samhsa.gov.

Help Prevent Sanitary Sewer OverflowsNeighbors can do their part to help prevent sewer overflows. Never flush the following items down the toilet: tampons and other feminine hygiene products; baby wipes, wet wipes and cleaning pads; dental floss; swabs and cotton balls; diapers; paper towels and tissues; hair; cigarette butts; condoms; and kitty litter. When flushed down the toilet, these items bind together and may cause sewage backups in homes, manhole overflows, and failures at sewage pumping stations. In addition, never pour cooking oils down the drain. Instead, pour the oils into old cans, milk containers or other packages and dispose of them in the black garbage cart. To report a sewer overflow, please contact the City’s 24-Hour Neighbor Call Center at 954-828-8000 or online at www.fortlauderdale.gov/lauderserv.

Sun Trolley and Riverwalk Water Trolley Service UpdatesThe Downtown Fort Lauderdale Transportation Management Association (TMA) has introduced service changes to the Sun Trolley and Riverwalk Water Trolley to ensure the safety of drivers and riders and help slow the community spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The following route-specific updates are in effect:

Social distancing precautions will remain in effect. Stacked seating is implemented by blocking off every other seat, vehicle capacity is limited to nine passengers, riders are encouraged to board through the rear door when possible, and all Sun Trolley drivers are having their temperatures checked daily. In addition, all passengers are required to wear a cloth face covering, in accordance with Broward County’s Emergency Order 20-07. Riders without a cloth face covering will not be allowed on the Sun Trolley. For more details, visit bit.ly/STServiceChangesApril13 or call 954-TROLLEY (954-876-5539).

CDC Issues New Return to Work Guidelines for Essential EmployeesThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising that critical infrastructure workers may now be permitted to return to work following potential exposure to COVID-19, provided they remain asymptomatic and additional precautions are implemented to protect them and the community. Critical Infrastructure workers who have had an exposure but remain asymptomatic should adhere to the following practices prior to and during their work shift:

Pre-Screen: Employers should measure the employee’s temperature and assess symptoms prior to them starting work. Ideally, temperature checks should happen before the individual enters the facility.

Regular Monitoring: As long as the employee doesn’t have a temperature or symptoms, they should self-monitor under the supervision of their employer’s occupational health program.

Wear a Mask: The employee should wear a face mask at all times while in the workplace for 14 days after the last exposure. Employers can issue facemasks or can approve employees’ supplied cloth face coverings in the event of shortages.

Social Distance: The employee should maintain 6 feet and practice social distancing as work duties permit in the workplace.

Disinfect and Clean Workspaces: Clean and disinfect all areas such as offices, bathrooms, common areas, and shared electronic equipment routinely.

For more details regarding the CDC’s return to work guidelines, visit bit.ly/3aZyL1J.

Complete the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 Community Action SurveyThe Florida Department of Health (DOH) has launched a community action survey called StrongerThanC-19. The survey is designed to aid Florida as the state continues to fight the spread of COVID-19. Information obtained in the survey will be used to help the DOH improve the distribution of resources to support healthcare and other initiatives across the state. Florida residents are encouraged to complete the StrongerThanC-19 community action survey, which can be accessed at www.StrongerThanC19.com. The survey is free and responses are anonymous.

Fact Sheets on CARES Act Business Assistance ProgramsThe Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development have made fact sheets available outlining information and eligibility guidelines for business assistance programs from the state of Florida, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and through the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The fact sheets can be accessed by visiting bit.ly/2JSprRn.

New Operating Hours for Broward County Coronavirus Call CenterThe Broward County COVID-19 Hotline, 954-357-9500, has new operating hours. The hotline is now available 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., seven days a week. The County’s COVID-19 Call Center assists the public with answers to questions about the virus. In addition to providing information, call takers also conduct over-the-phone pre-screening for testing eligibility before referring callers to the Department of Health for testing. In addition to the Broward County COVID-19 Hotline, the Florida Department of Health offers a 24/7 Coronavirus Call Center at 1-866-779-6121. Please note the Broward County COVID-19 Call Center will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 12.

Chamber Resource Guide for Small BusinessesThe Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce has produced a COVID-19 Guide for Businesses and Employees that includes information about state and federal business loans and economic assistance programs, including the new Paycheck Protection Plan that is part of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security or CARES Act, which was recently passed by Congress. The guide also includes information on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and how it affects organizations. To access the guide, visit bit.ly/gflccguide.

Department of Health Information

According to the Florida Department of Health, as of June 3, 2020, results from approximately 112,693 tests administered in Broward County indicated 105,296 negative results; 7,339 positive results; 42 inconclusive results; and 22 pending results. To see the latest data from the FDOH, visit bit.ly/2wb29D2.

Individuals with questions related to the coronavirus should call the Florida Department of Health’s Coronavirus Call Center at 1-866-779-6121 which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov. Individuals who are concerned that they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should call the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at 954-412-7300 and their healthcare provider before traveling to any healthcare facility.

State of Florida Opens Two Walk-Thru COVID-19 Testing Sites in Broward CountyThe state of Florida has opened its first two walk-thru testing sites, both of which are located in Broward County. The sites are open at the Urban League, located at 560 N.W. 27 Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, and Mitchell Moore Park, located at 901 N.W. 10 Street in Pompano Beach. Each site will administer 200 tests a day. Individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can walk up to the sites to receive a test or can set up an appointment to be tested. The Urban League testing site will be open Tuesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the Mitchell Moore Park site will be open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. every day except Thursday. Appointments may be made by calling (954) 412-7300.

Broward Health Offers Free Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing at Two LocationsBroward Health offers free COVID-19 drive-thru testing at two locations: Central Broward Regional Park and Broward County Stadium, located at 2700 N.W. 11 Place in Lauderhill, and Festival Marketplace, located at 2900 W. Sample Road in Pompano Beach. Testing is by appointment only and walkups are not allowed. The testing sites are open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In order to be tested, individuals must be prescreened and meet testing guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Florida Department of Health, be pre-qualified with a prescription, and be pre-registered with an appointment by calling Broward Health at 954-320-5730. For more details, visit bit.ly/2Vz8Pni.

Testing Sites Operating at C.B. Smith Park and Cleveland Clinic Krupa CenterMemorial Healthcare is operating a drive-thru testing site at C.B. Smith Park, located at 900 N. Flamingo Road in Pembroke Pines. Testing at this facility is available to South Florida residents 18 years and older who are symptomatic, and first responders and healthcare workers who are symptomatic or asymptomatic (showing no symptoms of COVID-19). Individuals must pre-register by calling 954-276-4680, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. For more details, visit bit.ly/2KgTHpy. The Cleveland Clinic operates a drive-thru testing site at its Krupa Center, located at 3250 Meridian Parkway in Weston. Testing takes place Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To book an appointment, call 954-659-5951. Callers will be screened by a nurse who will determine whether they meet testing criteria. For details, visit https://cle.clinic/39fUBfT.

City Operations

Department of Sustainable DevelopmentThe City of Fort Lauderdale’s Department of Sustainable Development building, located at 700 N.W. 19 Avenue, has reopened. Customers are allowed to conduct business in the building Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., provided they adhere to strict guidelines that have been put in place to protect health and safety and ensure proper social distancing. A check-in process has been established in the DSD parking that requires customers to remain in their vehicles and provide staff with their name and phone number. Each customer receives a call when it is their turn to enter the building. Prior to entering, customers are required to have their temperature taken, clean their hands, have any paperwork disinfected, and be wearing a facial covering. Signage inside the lobby prompts customers to follow a designated one-way counter-clockwise direction. Customers proceed to a designated permit services technician for permitting assistance, and those awaiting service are positioned a minimum of six feet apart from each other. Customers with questions may contact the DSD call center at 954-828-6520. The City’s online platform, Lauderbuild, is available 24/7 at the following link: https://aca3.accela.com/FTL/Default.aspx. Lauderbuild provides access to permit searches, online payments, application submittal, license renewal, and more.

Permit Plan Application SubmittalDrop boxes have been installed outside the front door of the DSD building at 700 NW 19th Avenue. Applicants may pick up permit plan application forms as well as instructions for how to submit plans in the appropriate drop boxes. Intake staff will pick up submitted applications throughout the day for processing. Individuals are required to provide their name, email and phone number on the application so that staff can communicate as needed to complete the intake process. All payments should be made using the Lauderbuildonline platform. Payments are required to be made prior to the City issuing a permit. Individuals may pick up applications for corrections by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please call 954-828-6520.

Scheduling of InspectionsPermit inspections are available to be scheduled either through the DSD Call Center at 954-828-6520 or through Lauderbuild. Please be aware that inspections are prioritized to ensure medical facilities are inspected first along with life safety. All other inspections are then performed on a first-come first-served basis. Any sites to be inspected should have all non-essential staff removed from the inspection area so that City staff can maintain social distancing.

Code EnforcementCode enforcement is open; however, activity is primarily in the field and with social distancing in place.

Urban Design and Planning (UDP)Urban Design and Planning (UDP) is open, however, to maintain social distancing UDP staff is working remotely. Please contact planning staff via email by visiting https://bit.ly/2QVrqbR.

Zoning & LandscapeZoning is currently operating at reduced capacity; however, plan reviews are moving forward. Landscape has inspectors in the field and plans reviews are moving forward.

EngineeringEngineering is currently operating at reduced capacity; however, plan reviews and inspections are moving forward. Revocable licenses are being processed.

Additional City Services

Online City Services Neighbors are encouraged to utilize Fort Lauderdale’s online services to conduct business. Please visit the Lauderserv page on the City’s website at www.fortlauderdale.gov/lauderserv for information about a variety of online services including utility billing, parking and transportation, code compliance, building permits, human resources, and more.

City Sanitation, Yard Waste, Recycling and Bulk Trash Services All City sanitation collection services, including residential trash collection, yard waste, recycling, and bulk trash, will continue to operate on their regular collection schedules.

Lien SearchesLien Searches are open and may be requested by contacting the Finance Department at 954-828-5155 or liens@fortlauderdale.gov.

Water and Wastewater ServicesWater and wastewater services are not affected by the coronavirus outbreak. These essential services will continue without interruption. During this challenging situation, as people are spending more time at home, please help us prevent sanitary sewer overflows.

Customer ServiceNeighbors may contact the City’s 24-Hour Customer Service Center by calling 954-828-8000 or by using the LauderServ app or visiting www.fortlauderdale.gov/lauderserv.

Utility BillingUtility billing staff will be available by phone at 954-828-5150 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Neighbors can call utility billing to ask questions, open a new utility account, or make a payment. Utility billing payments may also be made online at www.fortlauderdale.gov/utilitybilling and at the drive-thru kiosk on the east side of City Hall, which is located at 100 North Andrews Avenue.

Business and Employee Assistance Programs

The City of Fort Lauderdale is sensitive to the stress and financial impact our businesses and their employees are experiencing as a result of COVID-19. For more information about programs and resources designed to assist businesses, employees, and the general public during this challenging time, please visit https://bit.ly/2U2qwfw.

The Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) is also sharing information about resources that become available from the federal, state, or county government at www.broward.org/econdev.

For the latest updates from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, visit their website.

Fort Lauderdale Police Department

Beware of COVID-19 Scams!

The Fort Lauderdale Police Department reminds everyone to be aware of potential COVID-19 scams by phone, email or in person. Currently, the CDC, Florida Department of Health and other public health officials, and law enforcement are NOT going door to door selling COVID-19 test kits. If someone offers to sell you a kit, either in person or by phone, please call 954-764-HELP to report it!

Broward County

Broward County Public SchoolsBroward County Public Schools (BCPS) will continue to provide regular updates on operational, academic, and other issues of concern related to the closing of schools due to the coronavirus pandemic. The following documents (updated 03-18-2020) are specific to the impact on student academics:

Broward County Public Schools has also announced that Comcast has launched program enhancements to help students access the internet during the coronavirus crisis by offering two months of internet free. For information about the offer, please visit bit.ly/2TUp9zd. To learn more about Internet Essentials, please visit www.internetessentials.com or call toll-free 1-855-846-8376. For the latest information from Broward County Public Schools, please visit www.browardschools.com/coronavirus.

Broward County Public Schools UpdateThe Broward County Public Schools reminds parents and students about the following resources that are available to assist with distance learning. For more information, visit www.browardschools.com/coronavirus

Broward Schools Launches Distance Learning Technical Support Line With the recent announcement that distance learning will remain in place through the remainder of the current academic school year, Broward County Public Schools has launched a Distance Learning Technical Support Line. The help line is available to answer questions and provide students and parents with technical assistance on computer devices, academic platforms, and programs such as Canvas, Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Office, and others. To contact the Distance Learning Technical Support Line, call 754-321-0569 Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For additional updates, visit www.browardschools.com/coronavirus.

Port EvergladesPort Everglades is open and operating at normal levels. Cargo and fuel are being delivered on their regular schedule. For additional information, visit www.broward.org/port.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International AirportFort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is open. FLL passengers are encouraged to check with their airline for the latest travel and flight advisories. For additional information, visit www.broward.org/airport.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.

If your children are sick, keep them at home. Do not send them to school. Contact your medical provider.

If someone in your household has tested positive for the coronavirus, keep the entire household at home. Do not go to work. Do not go to school. Contact your medical provider.

If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.

If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk (for example, a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system), stay home and away from other people.

Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.

If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as healthcare services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule. You and your employers should follow CDC guidance to protect your health at work.

This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance. For the latest information about the coronavirus from the CDC, please visit www.coronavirus.gov

General Information

How Does Coronavirus Spread?Coronavirus can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, including when an individual coughs or sneezes. These droplets may land on objects and surfaces. Other people may contract Coronavirus by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

Symptoms of CoronavirusSymptoms of Coronavirus may appear within two to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Should I be tested for Coronavirus?If you are concerned that you have been exposed to the coronavirus, please call the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at 954-412-7300 and your healthcare provider before traveling to any healthcare facility.

For More InformationThe Florida Department of Health has established a dedicated Coronavirus Call Center at 1-866-779-6121 that is available 24 hours a day seven days a week, as well as a dedicated email address at COVID-19@flhealth.gov which the public can use for questions or clarifications on issues related to the Coronavirus.

Travel Information

The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel. Many countries are experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and implementing travel restrictions and mandatory quarantines, closing borders, and prohibiting non-citizens from entry with little advance notice. Airlines have cancelled many international flights and several cruise operators have suspended operations or cancelled trips. If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe. Learn more at travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/ea/travel-advisory-alert-global-level-4-health-advisory-issue.html.

Anyone who experiences symptoms of respiratory illness, such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath, within 14 days after travel from China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan or any other destination under a CDC travel advisory should call ahead to their health care provider and contact the Florida Department of Health in Broward County at 954-412-7300 before visiting any healthcare facility. In addition, any individual who has had close contact with someone showing these symptoms who has recently traveled from any of these areas or who has been in contact with a person with a confirmed case of COVID-19 should follow the same procedures. Their health care professional will work with the Florida Department of Health in Broward County to determine if the person should be tested for COVID-19.

FLL passengers are encouraged to check with their airline for the latest travel and flight advisories. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is monitoring passengers arriving into the facility and looking for anyone displaying coronavirus symptoms. If displaying, they may detain/isolate the passenger(s) and will contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to handle. They will also look at a passenger’s travel history but if they are not displaying, they are not detained.

Port EvergladesPort Everglades is open and operating at normal levels. Cargo and fuel are being delivered on their regular schedule. For additional information, visit www.broward.org/port.